CHARGERS: Scouting the Denver Broncos

Denver lost to a New England Patriots team that is hard to stop. New England pulled away for a 31-21 victory in an afternoon game. The Broncos scored 14 unanswered points in a valiant comeback attempt but fell short after a fourth-quarter fumble by Willis McGahee. The Broncos dropped to 2-3, but are still in second place in the division.

Last game vs. Chargers

The Broncos won a pivotal game at Qualcomm Stadium last Nov. 27. Denver completed the 16-13 victory with three unaswered field goals, the last of which came in overtime. Kicker Nick Novak missed a potential game winner late in the fourth quarter. Running back Ryan Mathews had 113 yards on 13 carries in the loss.

Player to watch

Peyton Manning, QB

Manning is one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time, but the Chargers have long had his number. They adjust well to his style of play and have traditionally forced him into making uncharacteristic mistakes. Manning was the prize of the free-agent class, and instantly made the Broncos a Super Bowl contender.

Offense

Manning makes the offense go, bringing years of experience and the ability to make major adjustments at the line of scrimmage. WRs Eric Decker and Demaryius Thomas are the main pass-catchers, and McGahee is the primary ball-carrier. The Broncos are averaging 27 points and 390 yards per game, a solid total considering their record.

Defense

The Broncos have fared well in head coach John Fox's 4-3 defense. They switched out of the 3-4 last year, and have some strong players in the front seven. LB Von Miller and DE Elvis Dumervil are the best of the bunch, and CB Champ Bailey anchors a strong secondary. Denver's run defense is lackluster, giving up 120 yards per game.

Special teams

Kicker Matt Prater ranks among the NFL's best kickers. He hasn't missed a field goal attempt over the first five games. Punter Britton Colquitt has placed nine attempts inside the 20-yard line. Omar Bolden returns kicks while Jim Leohnard returns punts.

Coaching

The Broncos have fared well under Fox, the longtime former coach of the Carolina Panthers. Fox switched the defense and has had great success. His Broncos made the playoffs last year with Tim Tebow at quarterback and are expected to do so again with Manning under center.